Should I keep or drain the cooking liquid in homemade dog food?
The direct answerFollow the assessed recipe's instruction. Keeping or draining liquid is a preparation choice that can affect the composition and amount of the finished food; neither is universally correct for every recipe. If the directions are silent, ask the formulator to clarify. Do not assume the liquid is either nutritionally irrelevant or a complete replacement for another required component. [1] [2]
Treat the liquid instruction as part of the recipe
UC Davis emphasizes exact preparation. Look for wording such as drained, cooked with retained liquid or measured after cooking. Mark the step where liquid is handled. If you cannot find a clear direction, write down what you have been doing and ask for clarification. This avoids turning an unstated assumption into a repeated difference between the assessed formulation and the food served. [2]
Do not make a universal rule
USDA's retention framework includes preparation steps such as draining, showing that they are relevant to nutrient estimation. The particular consequence depends on the food and process. A general slogan such as keep every nutrient does not identify what the recipe intended to retain. Nor does a preference for a drier meal establish that all liquid should be discarded without assessment. [1]
Ask a practical question
Give the formulator the ingredient, cooking method and point at which you measure it. Explain whether you are retaining liquid because of texture or discarding it because of handling preferences. Request a direction that fits the formulation. If your method changes the final amount of food, ask how portioning should be interpreted. Keep the response with the recipe rather than relying on memory during future cooking. [2] [1]
Avoid repairing uncertainty with additions
Do not compensate for discarded liquid by adding a random broth, more food or a nutrient product. A replacement can differ from what was removed and introduce new uncertainties. Resolve the intended preparation first. If you have already changed the routine, disclose it during review. The useful outcome is a reproducible instruction, not a general promise that one liquid-handling method produces the healthiest possible meal. [1] [2]
Clarify the recipe's liquid-handling instruction and keep it with the relevant ingredient.
Explore future Plus planningThis article explains general feeding concepts; it is not an individual diet prescription or a diagnosis. Medical conditions, growth, pregnancy, nursing and weight-loss plans require veterinary guidance. A calculated recipe is not the same as a clinically reviewed diet.
Sources and further reading
- USDA Table of Nutrient Retention Factors, Release 6 (2007)USDA Agricultural Research Service / food data / source checked 2026-10-13
- Nutrition Support Service: Frequently Asked QuestionsUC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital / guidance / source checked 2026-10-13